The event was attended by over 150 volunteers and more than 40 were recognised for their length of service - some of up to 30 years.

There are around 1,000 registered volunteers at the Conquest, Eastbourne District General, and Bexhill Hospitals, working in different areas of the hospitals, working for free for a minimum of four hours a week.

Irene Dibben, chairman of East Sussex Hospitals Trust, which runs the hospital, said: "We are extremely grateful to the work undertaken by so many volunteers in our hospitals.

"They all share one common thing - they give the precise gift of time. It is time freely given, in many cases a considerable amount of time, which all helps contribute to a better experience for our patients and visitors. The work, commitment and enthusiasm of our volunteers is a superb example to us all and a great service to the local community."

Joy Knight, a volunteer for over 30 years at the Conquest and St Helens Hospital and received a 30 year service certificate at the event.

She said: "Working as a volunteer is a very rewarding experience. I work helping out with the children on Kipling ward in whatever way I can. I have certainly noticed many changes over the last 30 years, in particular, children spend less time in hospital nowadays.

"In my own experience, volunteering gives you the opportunity of meeting and talking to people. I know for some it is a great reason for getting out of the house. It's a two way exchange – you receive as much as you give.

"I would encourage others to become volunteers and hope they get as much pleasure out of it as I do."

For more information about becoming a Hospital Volunteer call Pat Peachey on 01424 755255 ext 8497.